Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Recovering Compensation for Injured Pedestrians in Chicago

If you or a loved one has been hit while walking in the city, a Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is ready to help. Our firm has built a strong reputation across the state for representing injured pedestrians with skill, compassion, and proven results. 

With decades of experience handling pedestrian accident cases, we’ve secured millions in verdicts and settlements for clients hurt in crosswalks, on busy streets, or near intersections. We understand how serious these injuries can be and fight to make sure our clients receive the compensation they deserve under Illinois law.

Pedestrian Accident Settlements & Verdicts Recovered by Our Chicago Law Firm

$3,200,000 – James, a visually impaired man, was struck by a commercial garbage truck making a right turn near State and Lake in downtown Chicago. The truck driver failed to yield at a crosswalk. The severity of James’s injuries and the city’s surveillance footage played key roles in securing this result.

$2,800,000 – Carlos suffered multiple broken bones after a rideshare driver veered onto a West Loop sidewalk during rush hour. The driver was distracted by their GPS. Carlos’s lengthy recovery and inability to return to work helped support the damages we presented.

$1,100,000 – Two-year-old Ava was hit just steps from her home in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood. A neighbor driving above the posted speed limit struck her after failing to notice her near the curb. Her young age and lasting developmental challenges increased the value of the case.

$575,000 – Seven-year-old Malik suffered a fractured leg when a driver backed out of a driveway in a South Side residential area without checking for foot traffic. Despite initial disputes over liability, medical records and witness statements supported Malik’s claim and helped resolve the case before trial.

What Makes Us the Best Pedestrian Accident Attorneys in Chicago

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we are proud to be recognized as top-rated Chicago car accident attorneys. Our team has been consistently ranked among the best personal injury law firms in Illinois, with a proven record of recovering millions for injured clients. 

We combine deep knowledge of Illinois law with extensive trial experience, allowing us to secure significant verdicts and settlements in pedestrian injury cases. Our 10/10 Avvo rating reflects our commitment to achieving the best outcomes for those injured on Chicago’s busy streets and intersections.

Types of Pedestrian Accident Cases We Handle

We handle a wide range of cases involving injury victims struck by careless drivers in the city. These cases often involve:

• Crosswalk accidents where drivers fail to obey traffic rules or yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
• Hit-and-run incidents where drivers leave the accident scene without providing aid or information
• Intersection collisions in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic
• Distracted driving accidents caused by texting, GPS use, or other in-car distractions
• DUI-related pedestrian accidents involving drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Parking lot accidents where moving vehicles fail to spot people on foot
• Crashes involving commercial vehicles such as delivery trucks, buses, and rideshare drivers

What Are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Chicago?

Most pedestrian accidents in Chicago happen because drivers fail to follow basic traffic laws or pay attention to their surroundings. Distracted driving, especially texting behind the wheel, is a leading cause of severe injury on Chicago’s busy streets. Speeding in residential areas and near schools also creates a high risk for crosswalk accidents. 

Many pedestrian accidents occur when drivers fail to yield at marked crosswalks or run traffic signals at busy intersections. Impaired driving continues to be a factor in pedestrian fatalities across Cook County. Poor visibility during nighttime hours and poorly marked crosswalks add to the danger.

What Are Common Injuries Sustained in Pedestrian Accidents?

Pedestrian injuries are often severe because people on foot have no protection against motor vehicles. Our attorneys frequently see:

• Broken bones, including leg, arm, and rib fractures
• Spinal cord injuries and neck injuries that may cause paralysis
• Traumatic brain injuries range from concussions to life-changing injuries
• Internal injuries and organ damage that require emergency medical attention
• Amputations resulting from crushing impact or surgical removal
• Severe lacerations and scarring that lead to lifelong pain and emotional distress
• Wrongful death cases for families who lose loved ones in pedestrian crashes

What Damages Can Pedestrian Accident Victims Recover in Chicago?

Injured pedestrians in Chicago have the right to pursue compensation for both financial losses and the personal impact of their injuries. Our lawyers help clients recover damages such as:

• Medical bills for emergency care, hospital stays, surgery, and ongoing treatment
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs for long-term recovery
• Lost wages during the time an injury victim cannot work
• Loss of future earning capacity if the accident caused permanent disability
• Pain and suffering for the physical and emotional toll of serious injury
• Loss of normal life when everyday activities, hobbies, and relationships are affected
• Compensation for emotional distress related to trauma from the accident

What Is the Average Payout for a Pedestrian Accident in Chicago?

Based on Law.com’s VerdictSearch, the value of a Chicago pedestrian accident claim can vary widely. Reported outcomes range from as little as $5,000 to over $20 million. The median payout is $228,986, while the average is $1,741,455.

The value of pedestrian accident lawsuits depends on several factors, including:

• The severity of injuries, such as spinal damage or broken bones
• Liability disputes, such as whether negligent drivers or other liable parties failed to follow traffic regulations
• Insurance coverage limits Comparative fault under Illinois law, which reduces compensation if the pedestrian is found partially responsible
• Long-term damages, such as permanent disability, life long pain, or loss of future earnings

Example Pedestrian Accident Cases Filed in Cook County

$18,590,000 Settlement – Child Pinned by Car at Blue Island Intersection

Seven-year-old Filiberto Perez Jr. was pinned beneath a vehicle after an inexperienced driver struck another car and lost control near a construction zone. He sustained a TBI, skull fractures, and permanent cognitive impairments. His sisters suffered lesser injuries. The case centered on unsafe traffic control placement by contractors. After mediation, the case was resolved for $18.59 million, with most paid by John Burns Construction Co.

$11,433,190 Verdict – Student Hit by Car After Exiting CTA Bus

Twenty-year-old Francoise Gordon was struck by a Cadillac after stepping into a crosswalk in front of a stopped CTA bus. She suffered a TBI, coma, multiple fractures, permanent disability, and long-term need for care. A jury awarded $11.4 million but reduced her recovery to $6.05 million due to comparative fault.

$9,264,600 Verdict – Construction Worker Killed by Dump Truck

Francesco Colella, a 61-year-old laborer, was fatally struck by a dump truck while working on a city project in Chicago. His estate argued the driver and trucking company failed to use proper caution. A jury awarded $9.26 million, compensating his widow and children for wrongful death, loss of society, and related damages.

$7,500,000 Verdict – Drunk Driver and Police Misconduct Lead to Death

Eduardo Godinez was killed on Cermak Road when a drunk driver crashed into him while police officers had directed him to stand behind a parked squad car without activating warning lights. The jury found both the driver and the town of Cicero liable, awarding $7.5 million to his widow and six children for wrongful death and pain and suffering.

Why You Need a Chicago Pedestrian Injury Attorney

Working with our Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers gives clients a clear advantage in recovering compensation after a serious injury. 

Proving negligence is rarely straightforward, as drivers often deny fault, and liability may hinge on whether traffic rules were obeyed. Insurance company adjusters are trained to reduce payouts, pressuring victims to accept settlements that fail to cover medical costs, lost income, and long-term care needs. 

A personal injury attorney can immediately investigate the accident scene, obtain Chicago traffic crash reports, and consult experts to build a strong claim. When a pedestrian crash lawsuit must proceed, our experienced pedestrian accident attorneys are fully prepared to litigate in the Cook County Circuit Court to pursue maximum compensation.

How Common Are Pedestrian Accidents in Chicago?

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation’s 2023 crash summary, there were 2,492 pedestrian accidents, with 48 fatalities.

2,537 injuries were reported, of which:

• 430 people suffered incapacitating injuries, including conditions that cause permanent disability, amputations, or other disabling harm
• 1,580 pedestrians sustained serious but non-incapacitating injuries, such as fractures, cuts, or deep lacerations
• 527 people had minor injuries, including sprains, bruises, and less severe trauma
• 2,924 pedestrians were involved in crashes with no apparent injury noted at the scene
• 96 incidents were classified as property damage only.

Where Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen Most Often in Chicago?

Chicago pedestrian accidents commonly occur in high-traffic areas where drivers fail to watch for people on foot. Busy downtown intersections, including stretches along Michigan Avenue, are among the most dangerous intersections due to heavy pedestrian traffic and frequent signal violations. 

Accidents also happen near CTA bus stops, where people crossing in front of or behind buses are struck by motor vehicles. Residential neighborhoods are another risk, especially at poorly lit crosswalks where visibility is low.

What Laws Govern Pedestrian Accident Claims in Chicago?

625 ILCS 5/11-1002 requires drivers to yield to pedestrians crossing within marked or unmarked crosswalks. If drivers fail to stop, they may be considered negligent and held liable in a civil case.

625 ILCS 5/11-1003.1 requires all drivers to exercise proper care to avoid colliding with pedestrians. It emphasizes special caution around children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Violations often lead to liability for pedestrian accident injuries, especially in cases involving serious injury or pedestrian fatalities caused by negligent drivers.

Section 9-24-050 of Chicago’s Municipal Code reinforces state law by requiring drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and when traffic control signals are not in place. Failure to comply exposes drivers to liability for pedestrian crashes.

Section 9-24-030 establishes a pedestrian’s right-of-way when crossing with green lights or walk signals at intersections. If drivers ignore traffic signals or turn into crosswalks unlawfully, they may face liability in civil lawsuits.

How Long Do I Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit in Chicago?

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, victims generally have two years from the date of a pedestrian accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline may bar recovery of compensation for medical bills, lost earnings, and other damages related to pedestrian accident injuries.

For pedestrian fatalities, surviving family members have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit under 740 ILCS 180/2. This statute allows families to pursue compensation for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and loss of society in cases involving fatalities.

Who Is Legally Liable for Pedestrian Accidents in Chicago?

Liability in Chicago pedestrian accidents can extend to several parties depending on the accident scene and circumstances. Drivers are often the primary at-fault party, especially when they ignore traffic laws or fail to yield at crosswalks. 

Vehicle owners may share responsibility if they entrusted their car to unsafe drivers. Employers can be liable when commercial vehicles such as delivery trucks or rideshares strike pedestrians during work duties. Municipalities may face claims if defective crosswalks or poorly maintained traffic control signals contributed to the crash. 

In some pedestrian crash lawsuits, third parties such as contractors or property owners may also be held accountable.

Common Defenses in Chicago Pedestrian Accident Cases

Defendants in a Chicago pedestrian accident lawsuit often raise defenses aimed at reducing or eliminating liability. One of the most common is comparative negligence, where the driver argues the pedestrian was distracted or ignored traffic signals. In Illinois, if the pedestrian is found more than 50 percent at fault, they cannot recover compensation. 

Another frequent defense is the sudden emergency doctrine, where drivers claim an unforeseeable event—such as another vehicle swerving—made the crash unavoidable. In cases involving municipalities, cities often argue a lack of notice, claiming they were unaware of defective crosswalks or malfunctioning traffic control signals.

Our Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers overcome these defenses by gathering Chicago traffic crash reports, surveillance footage, and eyewitness testimony. We work with accident reconstruction experts to show how drivers caused the collision and use treatment records to prove the full extent of injuries, helping clients pursue fair compensation.

How to Strengthen Your Pedestrian Accident Case in Chicago

Strengthening a Chicago pedestrian accident claim starts at the accident scene. Injury victims should preserve evidence by taking photos of the vehicles, traffic signals, and visible injuries. Gathering names and contact information of witnesses helps confirm how the accident occurred. 

Obtaining a copy of the official Chicago traffic crash report is also critical for proving liability. Seeking immediate medical attention documents pedestrian accident injuries and links them directly to the crash. Finally, avoid giving recorded statements to the insurance company and consult an attorney immediately.

How Our Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help Injured Clients

The Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers provide full support from the moment we take on a case. 

We begin with a thorough investigation, reviewing the accident scene, police reports, surveillance footage, and medical records to identify liable parties. Our attorneys work with accident reconstruction experts, medical specialists, and vocational experts to prove how the accident caused severe injuries, lost wages, and long-term medical costs. 

We handle all communication with the insurance company, pushing for a fair settlement that reflects the actual impact of the injuries. If settlement negotiations fail, our pedestrian accident attorneys are ready to litigate in Cook County Circuit Court, presenting compelling evidence and expert testimony.

How to Prevent Pedestrian Accidents

The Chicago Pedestrian Plan outlines strategies to make walking safer across the city. It focuses on redesigning intersections, improving crosswalk visibility, and reducing pedestrian fatalities. These efforts aim to create safer streets for every Chicago pedestrian while holding drivers accountable.

The Mayor’s Pedestrian Advisory Council meets regularly to review pedestrian crash data, recommend safety improvements, and oversee enforcement strategies. It brings together city officials, advocates, and residents to make Chicago safer for pedestrians and reduce the number of cases involving life-changing injuries.

Chicago police conduct targeted Crosswalk Enforcement Initiatives to ensure drivers yield to people on crosswalks. These operations are aimed at reducing pedestrian crashes and reminding motorists of their duty to follow traffic laws, particularly at the city’s most dangerous intersections.

Chicago’s Pedway is an underground walkway system connecting buildings in the Loop. Offering pedestrians a way to avoid busy streets and intersections helps reduce the risk of accidents, especially during heavy traffic and poor weather conditions.

FAQs

How much does a Chicago pedestrian accident attorney cost? 

Our law firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing up front. We only receive a fee if we obtain compensation for you through a settlement or a jury verdict.

Who can file a pedestrian accident claim in Chicago?

Any injured pedestrian–or their legal guardian if a child–or surviving family members in wrongful death cases can bring a personal injury claim. A Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer helps ensure the claim is filed correctly, preserving your legal rights.

What if I was partially at fault for my pedestrian accident?

Under Illinois’ Comparative Negligence Law (735 ILCS 5/2-1116), you can still seek compensation if you were less than 50 percent at fault, but your percentage of fault reduces your damages. A pedestrian accident lawyer can fight to minimize the fault assigned to you.

Can I sue the city for a dangerous crosswalk compromising pedestrian safety?

Yes. Municipalities may be liable if defective crosswalks, poor lighting, or malfunctioning traffic signals create unsafe conditions. These cases are complex because cities often raise defenses such as a lack of notice. An experienced Chicago pedestrian accident attorney can pursue claims against municipal defendants.

Do pedestrian accidents need to be reported in Chicago?

Yes. In Illinois, pedestrian crashes must be reported if they result in injury or significant property damage. A police report provides essential evidence for proving negligence.

What if I got injured in a hit-and-run?

If the at-fault party flees the accident scene, you may still recover compensation through uninsured motorist coverage under your own insurance policy. A pedestrian accident lawyer can help investigate the hit-and-run, review insurance options, and file a lawsuit to protect your rights.

What if the negligent driver doesn’t have insurance?

Uninsured motorist coverage may apply if the driver at fault lacks insurance. This coverage can pay for medical bills, lost income, and other damages. Our pedestrian accident attorneys help clients file claims through their own policy and pursue compensation through all available legal avenues.

Should I see a doctor even if my injuries are minor?

Yes. Even minor symptoms may signal severe injury, such as internal injuries or traumatic brain injury. Immediate medical attention protects your health and creates documentation that links the pedestrian accident caused your injuries. These medical records are critical in building a strong personal injury claim.

How long do pedestrian accident cases take?

Every case is different. Some resolve within months through settlement with the insurance company, while others involving severe injuries or disputed liability may take years and go to trial in Cook County Circuit Court.

Should I accept the insurance company’s early settlement offer?

It is rarely in your best interest to accept an early settlement offer. Insurance adjusters aim to minimize payouts and may not cover long-term medical expenses or lost earnings. A pedestrian accident lawyer can calculate how much compensation you truly deserve and pursue fair compensation.

How do I prove negligence in a pedestrian accident claim?

Negligence consists of four elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. You must show that the driver owed you a duty of care. They breached that duty by violating the rules of the road, which caused the accident, and you suffered damages such as medical costs, lost wages, and pain.

Can I file a pedestrian accident lawsuit if I was jaywalking?

Yes, but your compensation may be reduced under Illinois’ comparative negligence law. If you were jaywalking, the driver may argue you share fault. As long as you are less than 50 percent responsible, you may still recover compensation.

Book a Free Consultation With a Chicago Pedestrian Accident Attorney Near You

If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian crash, don’t wait to protect your legal rights. The Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers can help you pursue maximum compensation. We offer a free consultation and only get paid if we recover compensation on your behalf.

Call us at (888) 424–5757 or fill out our contact form to speak with a top-rated personal injury attorney in Chicago and get started with the legal process.

Our downtown office, near the Richard J. Daley Center, Dirkson United States Courthouse, and the Chicago Workers’ Compensation Commission, offers convenient access from Aurora, Joliet, and Waukegan via I-90, I-94, and I-290.

Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers

225 W Wacker Dr #1660
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (847) 835-8895
Toll Free: (888) 424-5757

Resources: [1] NHTSA, [2] GHSA, [3] Chicago.gov

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.